More Rangers

Dirk Nowitzki shoots a 3 pointer to move into 16th place on the NBA’s all time scoring list (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)

DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) – As Dirk Nowitzki participated in anticipation of passing Jerry West for 16th place on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, he did so with his usual casual reverence.

“That’s the friggin’ logo!’’ Nowitzki would say.

And now the jump is made, the Dallas legend Nowitzki scoring 19 points in a 105-95 win at the AAC over the Wizards to propel him over the Lakers great who is the model for the NBA’s iconic logo.

“The logo kind of says it all and sums it up,’’ said Dirk, who now has 25,197 points to West’s 25,192 and can next target Reggie Miller’s 25,279. “It’s another great milestone.”

These are historic names, of course, and Mavs coach Rick Carlisle mentioned a couple more in classifying Nowitzki as a mid-range weapon.

“Bird, Jordan and Dirk,’’ said Carlisle, noting of Nowitzki’s legendary efforts in the practice gym: “It’s religion for him.’’

Nowitzki’s momentous shot was a 3-pointer was the second of two consecutive bombs that were part of a third-quarter 10-2 burst that pushed the Mavs into command in the win, which is Dallas’ fourth of the year in four tries. Not since 2007 have the Mavs started 4-0.

Another round of balanced scoring was also pivotal here. The Mavs (5-3) also got 19 points and seven assists from Monta Ellis (who made four quick buckets to start the fourth). Vince Carter scored 16, Samuel Dalembert had 15 points and five rebounds, Jose Calderon tossed in 11 points, Shawn Marion contributed eight points and nine rebounds, and DeJuan Blair added nine points and 11 boards.
Nowitzki solid line included eight rebounds and two steals.

Trevor Ariza led the Wizards with 27 points. John Wall and Nene each scored 12 points, Marcin Gortat collected 12 points and 12 rebounds, and Bradley Beal was held to nine points.

Said Carlisle, praising the Wizards: “You’re happy to survive it, but that’s a good young team.”

And Dirk Nowitzki? Off in the distance is Oscar Robertson at No. 10 in NBA history with 26,710 points. The Uberman could conceivably catch “The Big O’’ this season.

That’s an all-time legend still climbing to greater heights.

“It’s a monumental achievement to pass a player like that,” Carlisle said. “He’s going to pass more big names in the weeks and months to come. This has been a fantastic career that Dirk has had. We’re going to do everything possible to extend it as long as possible.”